South Carolina’s Rahsul Faison Cleared to Play Against Virginia Tech

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WACH) — The South Carolina football team received significant news Monday, just in time for their 2025 season opener. The NCAA granted a waiver to running back Rahsul Faison, allowing him to play this season.

Faison, a transfer from Utah State, sought a sixth year of eligibility after a lengthy process that included submitting extensive documentation to the NCAA. Head coach Shane Beamer had remained optimistic throughout the wait, sharing updates leading up to the announcement.

Faison tweeted his excitement about being cleared to join the Gamecocks for their first game against Virginia Tech on Sunday, August 31. The matchup will take place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

“He has been patiently waiting for this decision, and we share in his excitement,” South Carolina athletics director Jeremiah Donati said in a statement. “He will be a valuable member of our football team this year.”

Faison showcased impressive stats last season, rushing for 1,845 yards and scoring 13 touchdowns at Utah State. His journey has been multi-faceted, beginning at Marshall in 2019, then moving through various colleges before settling at South Carolina this year.

In his time with the Gamecocks, Faison has demonstrated resilience, returning from a shoulder bruise sustained during a preseason scrimmage. Beamer praised him and the entire running back group for their camaraderie and support of one another.

“We have more depth in that room this year, and they’re all really supportive of one another,” Beamer said. “They’re all competing with each other and making each other better.”

With Faison’s addition, South Carolina’s backfield now includes players like Jawarn Howell and Oscar Adaway III, who will likely share the spotlight during the upcoming game. The Gamecocks, ranked No. 13 in the AP Top 25, hope to replace the production of former player Raheem Sanders.

As the team prepares for the opener, Faison’s experience and skills provide a confidence boost heading into the season.